A new kind of technology has emerged that is both fascinating and concerning: deepfakes.

These are videos or images that have been digitally altered to make it appear as though someone is saying or doing something they never did.

Deepfakes are created using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, by superimposing someone's face onto another person’s body or by altering their words and actions.

Understanding what deepfakes are and how to spot them is crucial in fighting fraudsters, fearmongers, and those who want to advance false narratives and manipulate public opinion.

Imagine a video of a public personality saying something hurtful or politicians appearing to endorse false claims. Scary, right?

That's why we all need to learn how to spot them. After all, we should protect ourselves and others from misinformation or potential harm.

How to spot deepfakes

1. Pay attention to facial movements and voices

Watch out for inconsistencies like unnatural movements or mismatched facial features in the video. Sometimes, you might notice strange facial movements or unnatural voice tones, which could indicate that the content has been manipulated.

2. Observe the person's behavior

Pay attention to the body language of the speaker. If the behavior of the person in the video seems out of character or doesn't match their usual demeanor, it might be a deepfake.

3. Check backgrounds or surroundings

Deepfakes might have backgrounds that seem out of place or don't match the events in the video. If something in the background looks odd or doesn't align with what you'd expect, it could be a sign of a deepfake.

4. Check the source

Verify the credibility of the video source. If the content is from a questionable or unfamiliar source, be extra cautious. Remember, if you're ever unsure about the authenticity of something you see online, it's okay to seek advice and validate the information before sharing or believing it.

5. Be cautious of sensational content

Deepfakes are often used to create sensational or controversial content to grab attention. If something seems too shocking or too good to be true, take a step back and investigate before accepting it as true.

6. Consider the context

Think about the context in which the content is being presented. Does it seem plausible in that situation? Deepfakes often distort reality, so considering the context can help in spotting them.